Naked by the Window

I debated whether or not to write about this book which I recently read, for fear that it seemed too gossip-magazinesque. However, I think it is actually really valid in terms of an art text, although in a strange way. Naked by the Window: The Fatal Marriage of Carl Andre and Ana Mendieta by Robert Katz chronicles the events surrounding the death of Ana Mendieta (her fall/shove from the window of the apartment she shared with Carl Andre - possibly shoved by Andre himself). Mendieta's 1985 death caused a huge schism in the art-world, as collectors, gallerists, and artists seemed to take one side or the other. A court case was waged, and Mendieta's family and fans still mourn her death to this day. This wild tabloid-worthy story does not garner mention here due to the hype and celebrity, but it does deserve a reading, especially by anyone who has ever been, known, or loved an artist, and known the incredibly agonizing and manic life that often accompanies them. Also, the book had a chilling impact on my daily routine - knowing that there is still an imprint of her fall in SoHo.